Theis Orntoft, a Danish writer, has been awarded the European Union Prize for Literature for his novel “Jordisk” (Terrestrial in Italian). This prestigious literary prize, organized by the European Union, aims to promote emerging talents in European literature.
The jury, composed of seven literary experts and chaired by Ukrainian writer Andrei Kurkov, awarded five special mentions to Todor Todorov from Bulgaria, Deni Utlu from Germany, María Elísabet Bragadóttir from Iceland, Sholeh Rezazadeh from the Netherlands, and Tina Vrščaj from Slovenia. The thirteen finalists came from various countries such as Albania, Germany, Bulgaria, Hungary, Iceland, Latvia, the Netherlands, Portugal, Serbia, Slovenia, Tunisia, and Denmark.
The jury members had the opportunity to embark on a literary journey throughout Europe and its new worlds through the pages of the finalists’ works. It was an adventure filled with surprises and vibrant colors, offering a beautiful experience of comparison and discussion on contemporary European literature. Elena Loewenthal, a writer and translator who represented Italy on the jury, commented on this enriching experience.
The European Union Prize for Literature has been searching for new talents in European literature for three years. The award ceremony took place on April 4th at the Brussels Book Fair (Foire du Livre de Bruxelles), marking the end of this exciting journey.
The recognition received by Theis Orntoft and the other finalists is a testament to the diversity and richness of European literature. It highlights the importance of supporting and promoting emerging authors who bring new perspectives and voices to the literary landscape.
The European Union Prize for Literature not only rewards these talented writers but also provides them with opportunities for international visibility and translation of their works. This recognition can significantly impact their careers and contribute to the dissemination of European literature beyond national borders.
The success of Theis Orntoft and the other finalists is an invitation for readers to explore the literary works coming from different European countries. It is an opportunity to discover new voices, narratives, and cultural perspectives that enrich our understanding of the world.
The European Union Prize for Literature has established itself as a vital platform for showcasing the best of European literature and fostering cultural exchange. By shining a spotlight on emerging talents, it encourages literary dialogue and creates connections between authors, readers, and publishers across Europe.
As we celebrate the achievements of Theis Orntoft and the other finalists, we also look forward to discovering new voices in the coming years. The European Union Prize for Literature continues to be a beacon of recognition for the literary talents that shape the European cultural landscape.